Report on Petition of Reweti te Hiakai and Others.

This is a petition from certain Native residents of Kaikoura. The petitioners allege that it is the intention of the Government to take a railway over their land without giving them any compensation; and they pray that a sum of £10,000 be granted them in payment for the injuries likely to be inflicted.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That it is evident to the Committee that this petition has been sent to the House under a misconception on the part of the petitioners. If the railway referred to is constructed, there is no doubt that compensation will be given in the usual way for any damage done to private property. The Committee cannot, therefore, recommend the payment of £10,000 to the petitioners.